Chapters 16-19 Summary

In Chapter 16, the trial begins. The courtroom is flooded despite foul weather. The first witness called is Mr. Meeks, the principal of the local school. Meeks comments on Fanny's behavior and gives favorable reviews of Heaven's work as a teacher.

The next person called is the Reverend Wise. Wise admits to fathering a child by Fanny. He also comments that she gladly took money from him to give up her child as she did not want the responsibility.

The next witness called is Peggy Sue Martin, the owner of a boarding house in Nashville. Martin states that Fanny used to prostitute herself in order to pay the rent.

The judge calls for a recess. Lakewood declares round one as a knock out.

In Chapter 17, the trial continues. Fanny is put on the witness stand and tells a completely different story about the Reverend Wise. Even...